By Legal Futures Associate National Claims
The social housing crisis in the UK, particularly in London, has reached an alarming tipping point. Research conducted by National Claims, an award-winning claims management company based in Edgware, shows the scale of the issue has grown exponentially, with some councils witnessing a staggering 10,000% increase in housing disrepair claims over the past five years.
The shocking data underscores the systemic neglect and failure of local councils to ensure adequate living conditions for tenants in social housing. Thousands of families across London are being forced to endure prolonged exposure to health hazards such as damp, mould, leaks, and infestations, leading to both physical and mental health challenges.
National Claims’ investigation sheds light on the councils most affected by the crisis. Ealing Council has seen the most dramatic surge, with a 10,000% increase in housing disrepair claims since 2018. Brent Council follows closely with a 3,950% rise, while Lewisham has recorded a 1,400% increase. These numbers represent not just a failure in housing infrastructure, but a neglect of the tenants who depend on safe and habitable homes.
Daniel Brito, Managing Director of National Claims, described the findings as a wake-up call that have sparked conversations for Parliamentary change. “Far too often social housing tenants are left feeling neglected and ignored, often for years at a time,” he said. “We’ve seen countless cases of families living with damp, mould, structural damage, and pests – all of which pose serious health risks.”
The tragic case of Awaab Ishak in 2020, a toddler who died as a result of prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s housing association flat, sparked national outrage and prompted a review of landlord guidance. However, National Claims’ research shows that meaningful change remains elusive.
A grassroots approach to change
Recognising the gravity of the situation, National Claims has taken a proactive stance in supporting tenants and advocating for legislative reforms. The company hosted a community event in Newham, after a surge in claims from tenants in the area, to provide advice and support to social housing residents. Attendees were educated about their rights and the steps they could take to seek compensation for substandard living conditions.
The team also invited council members and MPs to highlight the extent of the issues and spark meaningful change. Having heard some of the stories that came out as a result, Managing Director Daniel Brito was invited to Parliament to meet with Sir Stephen Timms, Newham’s MP, and the office of Marsha De Cordova, MP for Battersea, to further discuss how the council can better support families living in unfit housing.
“Hearing the stories from tenants first hand was heartbreaking,” said Brito. “It reinforced the urgency of our mission to stand up for those who feel abandoned by their councils and housing associations.”
National Claims’ efforts extend beyond advocacy. In solidarity with the wider housing crisis, the company hosts an annual fundraiser for Shelter, a leading housing and homelessness charity, to support its ongoing work.
The crisis is not confined to London; it reflects a broader failure in the UK’s approach to social housing. Decades of underfunding, coupled with rising demand, have left councils struggling to maintain their housing stock. The result is a growing divide between the government’s promises and the reality faced by tenants.
For those living in dangerous conditions, the impact is profound. Families are left to contend with respiratory illnesses caused by damp and mould, while leaks and structural damage make their homes unsafe. The mental toll is equally significant, as tenants are forced to fight lengthy battles for repairs that should be a basic right.
National Claims is now calling on MPs to address the crisis with urgency. The company believes that without stronger legislation and stricter enforcement, councils and housing associations will continue to fall short of their responsibilities.
“The current system is failing the very people it’s meant to protect,” said Brito. “We need robust laws to ensure landlords and councils are held accountable, and we need those laws to be enforced consistently.”
For tenants trapped in unfit housing, National Claims offers a lifeline. Their team provides free, no-obligation consultations to help residents understand their rights and navigate the compensation process.
“We are here to be the voice for those suffering in unfit and dangerous social housing,” Brito emphasised.
Tenants in need of assistance can contact National Claims’ friendly team on 0800 029 3849. Whether it’s advice, advocacy, or practical support, the company’s unwavering commitment to clients ensures they don’t have to face these challenges alone.
The social housing crisis is a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change. While organisations like National Claims and charities such as Shelter are stepping up to fill the gaps, the ultimate responsibility lies with the government and local authorities. Without immediate action, countless families will continue to endure unfit and unsafe living conditions.
For now, the efforts of National Claims offer a glimmer of hope. By amplifying the voices of tenants and pushing for legislative reform, they are helping to lay the groundwork for a fairer, more just housing system in the UK.
